Created with the concert pianist's repertoire in mind. H. Leslie Adams Piano Etudes are studies of varying styles, moods, tonalities, and thematic natures — each providing different technical challenges, while expressing the composer's personal sense of beauty. A graduate of Oberlin, Long Beach State University and Ohio State University, H. Leslie Adams’ music has been performed by orchestras in the U.S. and abroad and he is the recipient of commissions from the Cleveland Orchestra, Ohio Chamber Orchestra, and the Cleveland Chamber Symphony, among others. Pianist Thomas Otten, a faculty member at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, has been the recipient of numerous national and international prizes and has performed internationally as a concerto soloist and recitalist. His performances of these etudes are engaging and beautiful. Piano Etudes, Part I, was recorded by Maria Corley for Albany Records (TROY639).

Contents:

H. Leslie Adams, composer Piano Etudes, Part II Thomas Otten, piano

Review:

“Adams writes in an unabashedly tonal style, with the music as warm and ingratiating as is his smile in the photo in the booklet of the CD….Pianist Thomas Otten brings a most sensitive touch to the exquisite melodies and harmonies of these pieces, caressing and lingering over phrases where appropriate, and bringing considerable drama to the more vigorous passages…” (Fanfare)